Cheapskate

Most Important Level 4

"to be a cheapskate" / "Don't be a cheapskate."

Meaning: a person who is unwilling to spend money and who is not generous with their money

Similar Expressions
  • He is a cheapskate.
  • He is cheap.
  • He is stingy.
  • He is not generous.
  • He is a scrooge.
When do we use it?

This is a negative word. We use it when a person is too selfish with their money. This could be when they avoid paying their fair share or they are not generous or kind with their money.

Being called a "cheapskate" is not a good thing. The words "thrifty" and "frugal" are more positive ways to say that a person is very careful with their money.

How do we use it?

We usually use this after a "be verb".
  • He is a cheapskate.
  • Mary is a cheapskate.
  • Don't be a cheapskate.
We can add other words and use a few other sentence patterns.
  • He is such a cheapskate.
  • She is a big cheapskate.
  • What a cheapskate!
Example English Conversation

A) Greg is such a cheapskate.
B) What did he do?
A) We ordered a pizza together and we both ate 4 pieces. But he said that my pieces were bigger, so I should pay more.
B) I can't believe he said that. What a cheapskate!

Adding expressions and idioms to your vocabulary will help you become a better English speaker. You do not need to learn a million expressions or idioms at one time! If you study new English expressions and idioms steadily and consistently, then your vocabulary will get better and better. Use these free English lessons to expand your vocabulary and learn useful English idioms, slang, and expressions.